New Zealand

Q Theatre

The emergence of the Q Theatre building in central Auckland was a welcome addition to Auckland’s available performing spaces. The main Rangatira performing space is an entirely flexible space, accommodating seating configurations for up to 450 people that caters for a variety of performance styles. Other spaces provide settings for more intimate performances with smaller audiences, and for rehearsals.

Holmes Fire used performance-based design for key aspects of the building’s fire engineering assessment. This included egress modelling from all spaces within the building to demonstrate safe egress for the flexible combination of occupant loads simultaneously present within the building. The egress modelling was balanced with the smoke exhaust capacity provided in the main auditorium, in particular for the occupants on the upper balcony levels. The building also includes a smart smoke detection system that suits the regular use of theatrical smoke.